Remotely controlling a hydraulic system

ABSTRACT

In one aspect, a system (110) for performing an action is disclosed. In one arrangement and embodiment, the system (110) comprises: a tool (118) operable to perform at least the action; a controller (122); storage (124) storing electronic program instructions for controlling the controller (122); and an input/output means (126). In one form, the controller (122) is operable, under control of the electronic program instructions, to: receive input via the input means; process the input, and on the basis of the processing, control the tool to perform the action. In one embodiment, the action comprises a hydraulic tuning action in respect of a system, such as a hydraulic pump (114), comprising a hydraulic circuit.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to performing an action.

The present invention will be described with particular reference toremotely performing a hydraulic tuning action in respect of a systemcomprising a hydraulic circuit.

However, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited tothis particular field of use, it may be used in respect of othersystems, and for performing one or more actions, and for additionaland/or alternative purposes.

BACKGROUND

Any discussion of the background art throughout the specification shouldin no way be considered as an admission that such background art isprior art, nor that such background art is widely known or forms part ofthe common general knowledge in the field in Australia or worldwide.

All references, including any patents or patent applications, cited inthis specification are hereby incorporated by reference. No admission ismade that any reference constitutes prior art. The discussion of thereferences states what their authors assert, and the applicant reservesthe right to challenge the accuracy and pertinence of the citeddocuments. It will be clearly understood that, although a number ofprior art publications are referred to herein, this reference does notconstitute an admission that any of these documents forms part of thecommon general knowledge in the art, in Australia or in any othercountry.

A hydraulic circuit is a system comprising an interconnected set ofdiscrete components that transport liquid. The purpose of this systemmay be to control where fluid flows or to control fluid pressure. As oneexample, hydraulic machinery uses hydraulic circuits, in which hydraulicfluid is pushed, under pressure, through discrete components such ashydraulic pumps, pipes, tubes, hoses, hydraulic motors, hydrauliccylinders, and so on, to move a load.

FIG. 1 of the drawings depicts an example of existing hydraulicmachinery 10 comprising a hydraulic circuit 12.

In order to function as designed, hydraulic circuits and theirindividual components require initial and regular adjustments to set upthe circuit for its intended function and over time to adjust for thecondition of the individual components that can affect the performanceof the circuit. The performance of such adjustment actions may bereferred to as hydraulic tuning of the circuit.

These adjustments are traditionally performed by trained technicians ormechanics using hand tools 14, as depicted in FIG. 2, for example, andhydraulic testing equipment (including flow meters 16, as depicted inFIG. 3, and pressure gauges 18, as depicted in FIG. 4, for example) andare often performed in hazardous locations surrounded by multiplehigh-pressure hydraulic circuits, inside moving machinery, and withambient temperatures often exceeding 60° C. Undertaking such work, insuch an environment, is both unpleasant and dangerous for thetechnicians involved.

Particularly, and with reference to FIG. 5 of the drawings, anadjustment of a valve 20 (i.e. a valve adjustment action) of a hydrauliccircuit is currently made by the technician unlocking an adjusting screwlock nut 22 of the valve 20, physically rotating an adjusting screw 24inside a body 26 of the valve 20 with an appropriate hand tool (such asa wrench) while monitoring a pressure guage/flow meter that is operablyattached to the circuit being adjusted.

The adjusting screw 24 is turned until the circuit is at the desiredpressure or flow rating, as depicted in FIG. 6 of the drawings.

In order to confirm that a hydraulic pump/circuit is performing asdesigned or intended, hydraulic flow testing is required. To achievethis, a hydraulic flow testing action is performed in which a hydraulicflow meter 28, as depicted in FIG. 7 of the drawings, is operablyinstalled in the circuit by the technician, receiving hydraulic inputvia an input port 30 and providing hydraulic output via an output port32. A loading valve 34 of the hydraulic flow meter 28 is operable toallow the technician to artificially increase the upstream pressure inthe circuit. In this manner, the hydraulic flow meter 28 facilitatesverifying the operation and integrity of the hydraulic components of thecircuit being tested upstream while providing pressure and hydraulicflow readings to the technician (via an hydraulic pressure test point 36and oil flow and temperature signal 38 of the hydraulic flow meter 28operably connected to an appropriate indicating device 40).

As depicted in FIG. 8, manually increasing the pressure in the hydrauliccircuit by using the loading valve 34 often situates the technician nearhigh pressure hydraulic circuits, high ambient temperatures and highnoise environments inside operating equipment, thereby posing asignificant risk to the health and safety of the technician.

A particular example of the hereinbefore described traditional (manual)method of valve control and associated issues will now be described withreference to FIGS. 22A to 22F of the drawings.

Large mining machines, such as Excavators/Loading Shovels 210, asdepicted in FIGS. 22A to 22C, use a number of high-pressure hydraulicrams or cylinders to operate a digging arm 212 thereof. Typically, allof the hydraulic cylinders are controlled by Hydraulic Spool Valves(which may also be referred to as Directional Control Valves or DCVs)implemented as part of an appropriate hydraulic system control circuit,examples of which are depicted in FIGS. 22D and 22E.

Periodically, the hydraulic system of the machines requires tuning thatinvolves a technician manually adjusting Spool Valve Circuit Reliefs (anexample of which is depicted in FIG. 22F) positioned down in a controlor pump room of the Excavator/Loading Shovel 210 to ensure or seekoptimal operation thereof.

Some of the issues associated with this method of tuning include:

-   -   it being a potentially hazardous operation for the technician as        the control/pump room contains the hydraulic system (which may        be running/operating up to 5000 PSI through the pumps/valves        thereof). If a malfunction occurs, the technician may be        seriously injured (by burns and/or hydraulic injection, for        example);    -   discomfort for the technician involved in the operation due to        conditions of high heat/temperature and poor ventilation in the        control room;    -   it being a tedious process requiring the technician to access        the control room to perform tuning and check the status of the        hydraulic system; and    -   it being a time consuming process and providing no access to        live data from the hydraulic system.

Prior to the present invention, the only way to tune the valves andpumps on this type of machinery is by manually adjusting each spoolvalve using appropriate tools, as hereinbefore described.

This requires the technician to physically enter the control/pump roomto make the necessary adjustments, increasing their exposure topotential risks/discomforts including risk of hydraulic incident andheat exposure.

Once the adjustments are made, the technician needs to test them byaccessing a driver's cab of the Excavator/Loading Shovel 210.

Accordingly, the traditional method of tuning such machines isdangerous, time consuming, and inefficient.

It is against this background that the present invention has beendeveloped.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention seek to overcome, or at leastameliorate, one or more of the disadvantages of the prior art, or toprovide the consumer with a useful or commercial choice.

Other advantages of embodiments of the present invention will becomeapparent from the following description, taken in connection with theaccompanying drawings, wherein, by way of illustration and example, apreferred embodiment of the present invention is disclosed.

According to a first broad aspect of the present invention, there isprovided a system for performing an action, the system comprising:

a tool operable to perform at least the action;

a controller;

storage storing electronic program instructions for controlling thecontroller; and

an input means;

wherein the controller is operable, under control of the electronicprogram instructions, to:

receive input via the input means;

process the input and, on the basis of the processing, control the toolto perform the action.

Embodiments and implementations of the above described aspect, and thoseaspects described below, may incorporate one or more of the followingoptional features.

Optionally, the action is performed on, in respect of, in associationwith, and/or in relation to, an other system, which may comprise atleast one hydraulic circuit.

Optionally, the tool may be part of an interface for operably couplingthe system to the other system.

Optionally, the input comprises details. The details may comprise dataand/or information of, associated with, and/or related to: the tool; theaction to be performed; and/or the other system.

The data and/or information may be obtained by one or more ofretrieving, receiving, extracting, and identifying it, from one or moresources, which may include the tool and the other system.

The processing of the input may comprise an analysis of the details, inwhich case the controller may be operable, under control of theelectronic program instructions, to control the tool on the basis of theanalysis.

Optionally, the system comprises a display for displaying a userinterface, and the controller is operable, under control of theelectronic program instructions, to generate an output on the basis ofthe processing, and communicate the output via the display.

The tool may comprise at least one actuator, which may be part of anactuator system or a set of actuators.

The input means may comprise at least one sensor, which may be part of asensor system or a set of sensors. Individual sensors within the set ofsensors may be operable to monitor, sense and gather or measure sensordata and/or information associated with and/or relating to one or morecharacteristics, properties and/or parameters of one or more of thesystem, the action to be performed, the other system, and thesurrounding environment, or components, systems or devices associatedtherewith or coupled thereto.

Individual sensors within the set of sensors may comprise: a hydraulicpressure sensor; a hydraulic flow sensor; and a temperature sensor.

The action may be performed remotely from a user of the system.

Optionally, the input comprises user instructions which are input by auser via the input means. The user instructions may comprise a commandto perform the action, in which case the controller is operable, undercontrol of the electronic program instructions, to perform the actionaccording to the received user instructions.

In an embodiment, the electronic program instructions comprise software.

Optionally, the system is implemented in a device. The device may be amobile communication device, in which case it may comprise a smartphone,notebook/tablet/desktop computer, or portable media device, having thesoftware installed thereon. The software may be provided as a softwareapplication downloadable to the device.

Optionally, operations performed by the system occur automatically,without requiring human intervention.

According to a second broad aspect of the present invention, there isprovided a method for performing an action, the method comprising:

storing electronic program instructions for controlling a controller;and

controlling the controller via the electronic program instructions, to:

receive input via an input means; and

process the input and, on the basis of the processing, control a tooloperable to perform at least the action, to perform the action.

According to a third broad aspect of the present invention, there isprovided an actuator for use with the system according to the firstbroad aspect of the present invention, and/or the method according tothe second broad aspect of the present invention, as hereinbeforedescribed.

According to a fourth broad aspect of the present invention, there isprovided a sensor for use with the system according to the first broadaspect of the present invention, and/or the method according to thesecond broad aspect of the present invention, as hereinbefore described.

According to a fifth broad aspect of the present invention, there isprovided a computer-readable storage medium on which is storedinstructions that, when executed by a computing means, causes thecomputing means to perform the method according to the second broadaspect of the present invention as hereinbefore described.

According to a sixth broad aspect of the present invention, there isprovided a computing means programmed to carry out the method accordingto the second broad aspect of the present invention as hereinbeforedescribed.

According to a seventh broad aspect of the present invention, there isprovided a data signal including at least one instruction being capableof being received and interpreted by a computing system, wherein theinstruction implements the method according to the second broad aspectof the present invention as hereinbefore described.

According to an eighth broad aspect of the present invention, there isprovided a device for performing an action comprising a system accordingto the first broad aspect of the present invention as hereinbeforedescribed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of thepresent invention, in order that the invention may be more fullyunderstood and put into practice, preferred embodiments of the inventionwill now be described, by way of example only, with reference to theaccompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 depicts an example of existing hydraulic machinery comprising ahydraulic circuit;

FIG. 2 depicts examples of existing hand tools;

FIG. 3 depicts an example of an existing flow meter;

FIG. 4 depicts an example of an existing pressure gauge;

FIG. 5 depicts an example of a valve of a hydraulic circuit;

FIG. 6 depicts an example of a conventional adjustment action beingperformed on a valve of a hydraulic circuit;

FIG. 7 depicts an example of an existing hydraulic flow meter;

FIG. 8 depicts an example of a conventional hydraulic flow testingaction being performed using an existing hydraulic flow meter;

FIG. 9 depicts an embodiment of a system for performing an action inaccordance with aspects of the present invention, arranged according toa first operational set up;

FIG. 10 depicts the embodiment of the system of FIG. 9 arrangedaccording to a second operational set up;

FIG. 11 depicts a schematic diagram of components of a control system ofthe embodiment of the system of FIG. 9;

FIG. 12 depicts a simplified system diagram of the system of FIG. 9communicating with remote devices;

FIG. 13A depicts a perspective view of a valve actuator tool of thesystem of FIG. 9;

FIG. 13B depicts a perspective view to the valve actuator of FIG. 13A,exploded to show coupling to a reaction arm thereof;

FIG. 13C depicts a perspective view of the valve actuator of FIG. 13Ahaving an alternative reaction arm;

FIG. 13D depicts a perspective view of the valve actuator of FIG. 13Ahaving an alternative reaction arm;

FIG. 13E depicts a side view of the valve actuator of FIG. 13C;

FIG. 13F depicts an end view of the valve actuator of FIG. 13C;

FIG. 13G depicts a top view of the valve actuator of FIG. 13C;

FIG. 13H depicts a perspective view of the valve actuator of FIG. 13C,exploded to show coupling to the reaction arm thereof;

FIG. 13I depicts a perspective view of the valve actuator of FIG. 13A,having an alternative reaction arm;

FIG. 14A depicts a perspective view of a valve actuator of the system ofFIG. 9 operably connected, in a fitted or mounted position, to a valveadjustment point of a hydraulic pump;

FIG. 14B depicts another perspective view of the valve actuator of thesystem of FIG. 9 operably connected, in a fitted or mounted position, toa valve adjustment point of a hydraulic pump;

FIG. 15A depicts an exploded perspective view of components of the valveactuator of FIG. 13A;

FIG. 15B depicts another exploded perspective view of components of thevalve actuator of FIG. 13A;

FIG. 16A depicts a profile of a spline of the valve actuator of FIG.13A;

FIG. 16B depicts a table of specifications of the spline of the valveactuator of FIG. 13A;

FIG. 17A depicts a square drive of the valve actuator of FIG. 13A;

FIG. 17B depicts a table of standard size and dimensions for square tooldrives;

FIG. 18 depicts specifications for bearings of the valve actuator ofFIG. 13A;

FIGS. 19A, 19B, and 19C depict specifications for a ball detent plungerof the valve actuator of FIG. 13A;

FIGS. 20A, 20B, and 20C depict specifications for spring plungers of aspline reaction arm attachment of the valve actuator of FIG. 13A;

FIG. 21A depicts an exploded isometric view of components of a flowmeter of the system of FIG. 9;

FIG. 21B depicts a plan view of components of the flow meter of FIG.21A;

FIG. 21C depicts a section view of components of the flow meter of FIG.21A;

FIG. 21D depicts an elevation view of components of the flow meter ofFIG. 21A;

FIG. 21E depicts a side view of components of the flow meter of FIG.21A;

FIGS. 22A, 22B, and 22C depict examples of existing large miningExcavators/Loading Shovels;

FIGS. 22D and 22E depict examples of hydraulic system control circuitsof the Excavators/Loading Shovels of FIGS. 22A, 22B, and 22C;

FIG. 22F depicts an example of Spool Valve Circuit Reliefs of thehydraulic system control circuits;

FIG. 23 depicts a schematic diagram of the interworking relationship ofembodiments of a control box, flow meter box, and valve actuator(s) ofan embodiment of the system of FIGS. 9 and 10;

FIG. 24 depicts a schematic diagram of the embodiment of the control boxof FIG. 23;

FIG. 25 depicts a schematic diagram of the embodiment of the flow meterbox of FIG. 23;

FIG. 26 depicts a perspective view of an example embodiment of the flowmeter box of FIG. 23 without a covering portion in place;

FIG. 27 depicts a perspective view of an example embodiment of the flowmeter box of FIG. 23 with a covering portion in place;

FIG. 28 depicts a schematic block diagram of an example of a set ofvalve actuators of FIG. 23 deployed in a room or other space housing oneor more pumps;

FIG. 29 depicts an example of a Main Menu Page screen of a userinterface generated and displayed via a display of a mobilecommunication device of the system of FIGS. 9 and 10;

FIG. 30 depicts an example of a Setup Menu Page screen of the userinterface generated and displayed via the display;

FIG. 31 depicts an example of a Tuning Menu—Circuit Page screen of theuser interface generated and displayed via the display; and

FIG. 32 depicts a flow chart of a program sequence of actions performedby a software app of the system of FIGS. 9 and 10.

DEFINITIONS

The following definitions are provided as general definitions and shouldin no way limit the scope of the present invention to those terms alone,but are put forth for a better understanding of the followingdescription.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meaning as commonly understood by those of ordinary skillin the art to which the invention belongs. It will be further understoodthat terms used herein should be interpreted as having a meaning that isconsistent with their meaning in the context of this specification andthe relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overlyformal sense unless expressly so defined herein. For the purposes of thepresent invention, additional terms are defined below. Furthermore, alldefinitions, as defined and used herein, should be understood to controlover dictionary definitions, definitions in documents incorporated byreference, and/or ordinary meanings of the defined terms unless there isdoubt as to the meaning of a particular term, in which case the commondictionary definition and/or common usage of the term will prevail.

For the purposes of the present invention, the following terms aredefined below.

The articles “a” and “an” are used herein to refer to one or to morethan one (i.e. to at least one) of the grammatical object of thearticle. By way of example, “an element” refers to one element or morethan one element.

The term “about” is used herein to refer to quantities that vary by asmuch as 30%, preferably by as much as 20%, and more preferably by asmuch as 10% to a reference quantity. The use of the word ‘about’ toqualify a number is merely an express indication that the number is notto be construed as a precise value.

Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise,the words “comprise”, “comprises” and “comprising” will be understood toimply the inclusion of a stated step or element or group of steps orelements but not the exclusion of any other step or element or group ofsteps or elements.

Any one of the terms: “including” or “which includes” or “that includes”as used herein is also an open term that also means including at leastthe elements/features that follow the term, but not excluding others.Thus, “including” is synonymous with and means “comprising”.

In the claims, as well as in the summary above and the descriptionbelow, all transitional phrases such as “comprising,” “including,”“carrying,” “having,” “containing,” “involving,” “holding,” “composedof,” and the like are to be understood to be open-ended, i.e., to mean“including but not limited to”. Only the transitional phrases“consisting of” and “consisting essentially of” alone shall be closed orsemi-closed transitional phrases, respectively.

The term, “real-time”, for example “displaying real-time data,” refersto the display of the data without intentional delay, given theprocessing limitations of the system and the time required to accuratelymeasure the data.

The term. “near-real-time”, for example “obtaining real-time ornear-real-time data” refers to the obtaining of data either withoutintentional delay (“real-time”) or as close to real-time as practicallypossible (i.e. with a small, but minimal, amount of delay whetherintentional or not within the constraints and processing limitations ofthe of the system for obtaining and recording or transmitting the data.

Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to thosedescribed herein can be used in the practice or testing of the presentinvention, preferred methods and materials are described. It will beappreciated that the methods, apparatus and systems described herein maybe implemented in a variety of ways and for a variety of purposes. Thedescription here is by way of example only.

As used herein, the term “exemplary” is used in the sense of providingexamples, as opposed to indicating quality. That is, an “exemplaryembodiment” is an embodiment provided as an example, as opposed tonecessarily being an embodiment of exemplary quality for example servingas a desirable model or representing the best of its kind.

The various methods or processes outlined herein may be coded assoftware that is executable on one or more processors that employ anyone of a variety of operating systems or platforms. Additionally, suchsoftware may be written using any of a number of suitable programminglanguages and/or programming or scripting tools, and also may becompiled as executable machine language code or intermediate code thatis executed on a framework or virtual machine.

In this respect, various inventive concepts may be embodied as acomputer readable storage medium (or multiple computer readable storagemedia) (e.g., a computer memory, one or more floppy discs, compactdiscs, optical discs, magnetic tapes, flash memories, circuitconfigurations in Field Programmable Gate Arrays or other semiconductordevices, or other non-transitory medium or tangible computer storagemedium) encoded with one or more programs that, when executed on one ormore computers or other processors, perform methods that implement thevarious embodiments of the invention discussed above. The computerreadable medium or media can be transportable, such that the program orprograms stored thereon can be loaded onto one or more differentcomputers or other processors to implement various aspects of thepresent invention as discussed above.

The terms “program” or “software” are used herein in a generic sense torefer to any type of computer code or set of computer-executableinstructions that can be employed to program a computer or otherprocessor to implement various aspects of embodiments as discussedabove. Additionally, it should be appreciated that according to oneaspect, one or more computer programs that when executed perform methodsof the present invention need not reside on a single computer orprocessor, but may be distributed in a modular fashion amongst a numberof different computers or processors to implement various aspects of thepresent invention.

Computer-executable instructions may be in many forms, such as programmodules, executed by one or more computers or other devices. Generally,program modules include routines, programs, objects, components, datastructures, etc. that perform particular tasks or implement particularabstract data types. Typically the functionality of the program modulesmay be combined or distributed as desired in various embodiments.

Also, data structures may be stored in computer-readable media in anysuitable form. For simplicity of illustration, data structures may beshown to have fields that are related through location in the datastructure. Such relationships may likewise be achieved by assigningstorage for the fields with locations in a computer-readable medium thatconvey relationship between the fields. However, any suitable mechanismmay be used to establish a relationship between information in fields ofa data structure, including through the use of pointers, tags or othermechanisms that establish relationship between data elements.

Also, various inventive concepts may be embodied as one or more methods,of which an example has been provided. The acts performed as part of themethod may be ordered in any suitable way. Accordingly, embodiments maybe constructed in which acts are performed in an order different thanillustrated, which may include performing some acts simultaneously, eventhough shown as sequential acts in illustrative embodiments.

The phrase “and/or”, as used herein in the specification and in theclaims, should be understood to mean “either or both” of the elements soconjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively present in some casesand disjunctively present in other cases. Multiple elements listed with“and/or” should be construed in the same fashion, i.e., “one or more” ofthe elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be presentother than the elements specifically identified by the “and/or” clause,whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified.Thus, as a non-limiting example, a reference to “A and/or B”, when usedin conjunction with open-ended language such as “comprising” can refer,in one embodiment, to A only (optionally including elements other thanB); in another embodiment, to B only (optionally including elementsother than A); in yet another embodiment, to both A and B (optionallyincluding other elements); etc.

As used herein in the specification and in the claims, “or” should beunderstood to have the same meaning as “and/or” as defined above. Forexample, when separating items in a list, “or” or “and/or” shall beinterpreted as being inclusive, i.e., the inclusion of at least one, butalso including more than one, of a number or list of elements, and,optionally, additional unlisted items. Only terms clearly indicated tothe contrary, such as “only one of” or “exactly one of,” or, when usedin the claims, “consisting of” will refer to the inclusion of exactlyone element of a number or list of elements. In general, the term “or”as used herein shall only be interpreted as indicating exclusivealternatives (i.e. “one or the other but not both”) when preceded byterms of exclusivity, such as “either,” “one of,” “only one of,” or“exactly one of.” “Consisting essentially of,” when used in the claims,shall have its ordinary meaning as used in the field of patent law.

As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the phrase “atleast one”, in reference to a list of one or more elements, should beunderstood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more ofthe elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including atleast one of each and every element specifically listed within the listof elements and not excluding any combinations of elements in the listof elements. This definition also allows that elements may optionally bepresent other than the elements specifically identified within the listof elements to which the phrase “at least one” refers, whether relatedor unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as anon-limiting example, “at least one of A and B” (or, equivalently, “atleast one of A or B,” or, equivalently “at least one of A and/or B”) canrefer, in one embodiment, to at least one, optionally including morethan one, A, with no B present (and optionally including elements otherthan B); in another embodiment, to at least one, optionally includingmore than one, B, with no A present (and optionally including elementsother than A); in yet another embodiment, to at least one, optionallyincluding more than one, A, and at least one, optionally including morethan one, B (and optionally including other elements); etc.

For the purpose of this specification, where method steps are describedin sequence, the sequence does not necessarily mean that the steps areto be carried out in chronological order in that sequence, unless thereis no other logical manner of interpreting the sequence.

In addition, where features or aspects of the invention are described interms of Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognise thatthe invention is also thereby described in terms of any individualmember or subgroup of members of the Markush group.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

It should be noted in the following description that like or the samereference numerals in different embodiments denote the same or similarfeatures.

In FIGS. 9 and 10, there is depicted a first embodiment of a system 110for performing an action in accordance with aspects of the presentinvention, arranged according to a first operational set up and a secondoperational set up, respectively.

In the embodiment described, the action is performed on, in respect of,in association with, and/or in relation to, an other system 112, whichmay be referred to as a second system, comprising a hydraulic pump 114.

As will be described in further detail, the system 110 is operable toallow a technician 116, being a user or operator of the system 110, toperform a plurality of actions or operations comprising hydraulic systemtesting and adjustments on, or in respect of, the hydraulic pump 114.That is to say, to conduct hydraulic tuning of the hydraulic pump 114.

Particularly, the system 110 implements a hydraulic tuning (or flowcontrol) system allowing hydraulic circuit tuning without the technician116 having to physically be present at the site of the hydraulic circuit(for example, without having to be within the control/pump room of amachine such as an Excavator/Loading Shovel). The system 110 of theembodiment enables the technician 116 to make actions such as valve andpressure adjustments, whilst also being able to monitor hydraulic flowrate, temperature(s) and pressure(s), remotely (for example, from thedriver's cab of the Excavator/Loading Shovel instead of the control/pumproom). The system 110 of the embodiment achieves this through a customsoftware application, operated on a tablet computer or similar device,which allows the technician 116 to make valve adjustments whilevisualising corresponding pressure and temperature changes “on the fly”.

It will be appreciated that the invention is not limited in regard tothe other system on, or in respect of which, the action is to beperformed, and in alternative embodiments may be used in respect ofsystems other than hydraulic pumps, and for performing actions foradditional and/or alternative purposes.

In the embodiment, the system 110 is provided under the trade markHYDRATUNE™.

The system 110 comprises an electromechanical product comprising of anumber of integrated components.

Particularly, as depicted in FIGS. 9 and 10, the system 110 comprises aplurality of components, subsystems and/or modules operably coupled viaappropriate circuitry and connections to enable the system 110 toperform the functions and operations herein described. The system 110comprises suitable components necessary to interface with the hydraulicpump 114 and receive, store and execute appropriate computerinstructions such as to implement a method for performing an action inaccordance with embodiments of the present invention.

Particularly, and as shown in FIGS. 9, 10, and 11, the system 110comprises a tool 118 operable to perform at least the action; a controlsystem implemented via computing means 120 which in the embodiment isbased on Arduino™ technology and comprises a controller 122 and storage124 for storing electronic program instructions for controlling thecontroller 122, and information and/or data; input/output means 126 forreceiving input, and also providing output; and a source 128 forproviding energy to power the system 110; all housed within a containeror housing.

In embodiments of the invention, the energy source 128 comprises a 24VCAT™ Jump Start Receptacle, and/or 24V battery(s), connectable toprovide power as required via appropriate hardware such as powercable(s) and alligator battery clips, for example.

In embodiments of the invention, the input/output means 126 comprisesany data acquisition equipment, technology, and/or components as may beappropriate and/or required for the implementation.

In the embodiment, the housing 130 has the form of a control system andpower supply case (in combination with the components housed thereinthereby providing what may be referred to as a “control box” 131).

As will be described in further detail, the controller 122 is operable,under control of the electronic program instructions, to: receive inputvia the input/output means 126; process the input and, on the basis ofthe processing, control the tool 118 to perform the action.

The input/output means 126 comprises such components and circuitry asmay be required, operably connected, to facilitate the operationsdescribed, including connectors for Wi-Fi, power (12V/24V), RJ45 data,and control/power cables, that may be provided so as to be accessedexternally of the control system and power supply case 130.

As will be described in further detail, the tool 118 forms part of aninterface 132 for operably coupling the system 110 to the other system(being the hydraulic pump 114 in the embodiment) to be acted upon.

Particularly, in the embodiment, the controller 122 is operable, undercontrol of the electronic program instructions, to: receive input fromthe interface 132 (via the input/output means 126), the input comprisingone or more details of the hydraulic pump 114; process the input toconduct an analysis of the hydraulic pump 114; generate an output, onthe basis of the analysis, for controlling the interface 132 to performthe action on the hydraulic pump 114; and communicate the output, viathe input/output means 126, to the interface 132 to control theinterface 132 to perform the action on the hydraulic pump 114.

Particularly, in the embodiment, the controller 122 is operable tocontrol and run applications for hydraulic tuning of the hydraulic pump114.

In embodiments of the invention, the input comprises details. Thedetails may comprise data and/or information of, associated with, and/orrelated to: the tool 118; the action(s) to be performed; and/or thesystem to be acted on (being the hydraulic pump 114 in the embodiment).The data and/or information may be obtained by one or more of capturing,retrieving, receiving, extracting, and identifying it, from one or moresources, which may include the tool 118 and the system to be acted on.The one or more sources of data may reside on the storage 124, and/orelsewhere, remote from the system 110.

The controller 122 comprises processing means in the form of aprocessor.

The storage 124 comprises read only memory (ROM) and random accessmemory (RAM).

The system 110 is capable of receiving instructions that may be held inthe ROM or RAM and may be executed by the processor. The processor isoperable to perform actions under control of electronic programinstructions, as will be described in further detail below, includingprocessing/executing instructions and managing the flow of data andinformation through the system 110.

In the embodiment, electronic program instructions for the system 110are provided via a single standalone software application (app) ormodule which may be referred to as a hydraulic tuning app. In theembodiment described, the app is marketed under the trade markHYDRATUNE™ and can be downloaded from a website (or other suitableelectronic device platform) or otherwise saved to or stored on storage124 of the system 110.

The system 110 also includes an operating system which is capable ofissuing commands and is arranged to interact with the app to cause thesystem 110 to carry out actions including the respective steps,functions and/or procedures in accordance with the embodiment of theinvention described herein. The operating system may be appropriate forthe computing components of the system 110.

As depicted in FIG. 12, the system 110 is operable to communicate viaone or more communications link(s) 134, which may variously connect toone or more remote devices 136 such as servers, personal computers,terminals, wireless or handheld computing devices, landlinecommunication devices, or mobile communication devices such as a mobile(cell) telephone. At least one of a plurality of communications link(s)134 may be connected to an external computing network through atelecommunications network.

In the embodiment described, the remote devices 136 include a mobilecommunication device 138 owned and/or operated by the technician 116. Inthe embodiment, the mobile communication device 138 comprises computingmeans such as a personal, notebook or tablet computer such as thatmarketed under the trade mark IPAD® or IPOD TOUCH® by Apple Inc, or byother provider such as Hewlett-Packard Company, or Dell, Inc, forexample, or other suitable device. In alternative embodiments, themobile communication device 138 may comprise a smartphone such as thatmarketed under the trade mark IPHONE® by Apple Inc, or by other providersuch as Nokia Corporation, or Samsung Group, having Android, WEBOS,Windows, or other Phone app platform.

In the embodiment described, communication between the mobilecommunication device 138 and the control system components of the system110 contained within the control system and power supply case 130,including the generation, transmission and receiving of commands andsignals, is implemented via Wi-Fi or wired Ethernet IP signal (via LANcable as appropriate), the input/output means 126 comprising suchcomponents and circuitry as necessary and operably connected tofacilitate such operation.

Electronic instructions or programs for the computing components of thesystem 110 can be written in any suitable language, as are well known topersons skilled in the art. In embodiments of the invention, theelectronic program instructions may be provided as stand-aloneapplication(s), as a set or plurality of applications, via a network, oradded as middleware, depending on the requirements of the implementationor embodiment.

In embodiments of the invention, the software may comprise one or moremodules, and may be implemented in hardware. In such a case, forexample, the modules may be implemented with any one or a combination ofthe following technologies, which are each well known in the art: adiscrete logic circuit(s) having logic gates for implementing logicfunctions upon data signals, an application specific integrated circuit(ASIC) having appropriate combinational logic gates, a programmable gatearray(s) (PGA), a field programmable gate array (FPGA) and the like.

The computing means can be a system of any suitable type, including: aprogrammable logic controller (PLC); digital signal processor (DSP);microcontroller; personal, notebook or tablet computer, or dedicatedservers or networked servers.

The processor can be any custom made or commercially availableprocessor, a central processing unit (CPU), a data signal processor(DSP) or an auxiliary processor among several processors associated withthe computing means. In embodiments of the invention, the processingmeans may be a semiconductor based microprocessor (in the form of amicrochip) or a macroprocessor, for example.

The storage can include any one or combination of volatile memoryelements (e.g., random access memory (RAM) such as dynamic random accessmemory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM)) and non-volatilememory elements (e.g., read only memory (ROM), erasable programmableread only memory (EPROM), electronically erasable programmable read onlymemory (EEPROM), programmable read only memory (PROM), tape, compactdisc read only memory (CD-ROM), etc.). The respective storage mayincorporate electronic, magnetic, optical and/or other types of storagemedia. Furthermore, the respective storage can have a distributedarchitecture, where various components are situated remote from oneanother, but can be accessed by the processing means. For example, theROM may store various instructions, programs, software, or applicationsto be executed by the processing means to control the operation of thesystem 110 and the RAM may temporarily store variables or results of theoperations.

The use and operation of computers using software applications iswell-known to persons skilled in the art and need not be described inany further detail herein except as is relevant to the presentinvention.

Furthermore, any suitable communication protocol can be used tofacilitate connection and communication between any subsystems orcomponents of the system 110, and other devices or systems, includingwired and wireless, as are well known to persons skilled in the art andneed not be described in any further detail herein except as is relevantto the present invention.

Where the words “store”, “hold” and “save” or similar words are used inthe context of the present invention, they are to be understood asincluding reference to the retaining or holding of data or informationboth permanently and/or temporarily in the storage means, device ormedium for later retrieval, and momentarily or instantaneously, forexample as part of a processing operation being performed.

Additionally, where the terms “system”, “device”, and “machine” are usedin the context of the present invention, they are to be understood asincluding reference to any group of functionally related or interacting,interrelated, interdependent or associated components or elements thatmay be located in proximity to, separate from, integrated with, ordiscrete from, each other.

Furthermore, in embodiments of the invention, the word “determining” isunderstood to include receiving or accessing the relevant data orinformation.

The mobile communication device 138 comprises a display 140 fordisplaying a user interface, and the controller 122 is operable, undercontrol of the electronic program instructions, to generate an output onthe basis of the processing, and to communicate the output via thedisplay 140.

In the embodiment of the invention, the display 140 and the userinterface are integrated in a touchscreen 142. In alternativeembodiments these components may be provided as discrete elements oritems.

The touchscreen 142 is operable to sense or detect the presence andlocation of a touch within a display area of the mobile communicationdevice 138. Sensed “touchings” of the touchscreen 142 (by the technician116, for example) are inputted to the mobile communication device 138 ascommands or instructions and communicated to the controller 122 of thesystem 110. It should be appreciated that user input means is notlimited to comprising a touchscreen, and in alternative embodiments ofthe invention any appropriate device, system or machine for receivinginput, commands or instructions and providing for controlled interactionmay be used, including, for example, a keypad or keyboard, a pointingdevice, or composite device, and systems comprising voice activation.

Input to the system 110 may also be received via at least one sensorwhich is part of a sensor system or a set of sensors 144 of the system110, and may be considered to comprise part of the input/output means126. Individual sensors within the set of sensors 144 are operable tomonitor, sense, and capture or otherwise gather or measure sensor dataand/or information associated with and/or relating to one or morecharacteristics, properties and parameters of the system 110, thesurrounding environment, the action(s) to be performed, or components,systems or devices associated therewith or coupled thereto, such as forexample, the hydraulic pump 114, as will be described in further detail.

For example, the set of sensors 144 is operable to sense and gathersensor data relating to a state of the system 110 and/or a state of theenvironment surrounding the system 110.

In the embodiment described, the set of sensors comprise a sensor in theform of a hydraulic pressure transducer 146, operably connected toreceive power supply and communicate with the control system componentsof the system 110 contained within the control system and power supplycase 130, via a power and control cable or lead 148 leading to theinput/output means 126 thereof.

Particularly, the hydraulic pressure transducer 146 is operable to takehydraulic pressure readings from a hydraulic circuit (of the hydraulicpump 114) being adjusted, and communicate the readings to the controlsystem components of the system 110 contained within the control systemand power supply case 130 via the lead 148 and appropriate electronics.The system 110 is then operable to communicate the readings to themobile communication device 138, allowing for pressure feedback to thetechnician 116 via the touchscreen 142.

Alternative embodiments of the invention may comprise additional and/oralternative sensors in the set of sensors 144, including, for example, ahydraulic flow sensor and/or a temperature sensor, and/or other sensorsas may be appropriate for the implementation of the invention and theaction(s) being performed.

One or more sensors of the set of sensors 144 may be integrated with, oroperably coupled to, the system 110.

The controller 122 is operable, via execution of applications such asthe app, to collect and process inputs pertinent to the analysis beingconducted and the action to be performed, including operating commandsinput by the technician 116 via the user interface 142 and input arisingfrom sensors of the set of sensors 144.

The system 110 comprises operably connected/coupled componentsfacilitating performance and operations as described, includingappropriate computer chips (integrated circuits), transceiver/receiverantennas, and software for the sensory technology being used.

As hereinbefore described, the system 110 is operable to allow atechnician 116 to perform hydraulic system testing and adjustmentsactions or operations on, or in respect of, the hydraulic pump 114.

To achieve this, in the embodiment, tool 118 is a first tool of aplurality of tools, comprising: a universal hydraulic valve actuator 150(which may also be referred to as a valve turning motor); and a remotehydraulic flow meter 152. Together, the actuator 150 and the flow meter152 form the interface 132 operably coupling the system 110 to thehydraulic pump 114.

The actuator 150 allows the technician 116 to remotely actuate hydraulicsystem valves of the hydraulic pump 114.

Referring to FIGS. 13A to 15B, in the embodiment, the valve actuator 150comprises a drive or driving means in the form of a closed loop gearreduction stepper motor 154 designed and operable to allow fitment ormounting to any corresponding hydraulic valve adjustment point (such asa valve adjustment point 156 provided on a valve body 158 of a valve 160of the hydraulic pump 114, or to a spool valve relief that requiresadjustment, for example) by utilising a square drive output 162 providedwith square drive socket tooling 164.

In the embodiment, the valve actuator 150 is provided with a removablesplined reaction arm 166 or bracket operable for and allowing the valveactuator 150 to be firmly mounted to any hydraulic valve body bymounting various shaped reaction arms or brackets (i.e. replacing onereaction arm or bracket with another, as appropriate) to suit theapplication.

In the embodiment, the valve actuator 150 comprises the followingcomponents:

the stepper motor 154 with built in encoder operable for and to allowclosed loop control;

planetary gear reduction contained in a planetary housing 168;

an output shaft 170 with standard square drive (being ⅜ inch in theembodiment, but may be different in other embodiments, such as ¼ or ½inch, for example) to provide the square drive output 162 to allow useof standard square drive tooling (such as the socket tooling 164);

a notched reaction spline 172 (30-spline in the embodiment) operable forand allowing mounting and indexing of various reaction arms 166 to suitthe application;

a backing plate 174 operable for and to ensure that the reaction arm 166is correctly installed on the reaction spline 172;

output bearings 176 operable for and to handle additional side loadingcreated by mounting the valve actuator 150 by the output shaft 170; and

a ball detent 178 provided on the reaction arm 166 operable for and tosecure it in position on the reaction spline 172.

The valve actuator 150 is operably connected to receive power supply andcommunicate with the control system components of the system 110contained within the control system and power supply case 130, via apower and control cable or lead 180 leading to the input/output means126 thereof.

In embodiments of the invention, the valve actuator 150 may beimplemented by taking an off the shelf closed loop stepper motor/encoderwith integrated planetary gear box and modifying it by providing thefollowing replacement components: replacement output shaft for planetarygearbox with a ⅜″ square drive and ball detent for use with standard ⅜″square drive tooling; replacement gearbox end plate with a 30-toothspline and ball detent to allow attaching and indexing of a reactionelement; and various shapes of reaction elements with matching 30-toothspline to allow universal mounting of the valve actuator in multipleconfigurations.

Particularly, in embodiments of the invention, the valve actuator 150may be a tool comprising a modified version of the Nema™ 23 steppermotor/gearbox series,(https://www.omc-stepperonline.com/download/23HS22-2804D-PG15-E1000.pdf)(https://www.omc-stepperonline.com/_nema-23-closed-loop-geared-stepper-I56mm-qear-raio-151-encoder-1000cpr-23hs22-2804d-pg15-e1000.html).and may be designed with a modified output shaft 170 with a ⅜″ squaredrive 162 (square drive output instead of keyway coupling) for standardtooling and a modified bearing housing 169 with a 30-spline 172 profile(external) to work with the reaction arm 166. The external splineprofile allows for operable coupling with the interchangeable reactionarm 166, which may be made specific for each intended use. Inembodiments, the valve actuator 150 tool may be certified for safe usewith the largest combination of 47:1 gearbox with 1.2 Nm stepper (maxoutput: 56.4 Nm). In embodiments, the following relevant AustralianStandards may be met: AS1170—Minimum design load on structures;AS4100—Steel structures; and AS1664—Aluminium structures.

Referring to FIGS. 16A and 16B, in the embodiment, the spline profilecomprises a circular external spline incorporated into the bearinghousing 169 and an internal circular spline on the reaction arm 166. Forboth parts, the spline profile extends the entire thickness of thecomponent, advantageously allowing for ease of manufacture.

Such a spline profile may ensure a tight fit and good torque transfer,for example: ANSI B92.1—Major diameter fit, flat root.http://www.tandwiel.info/en/gears/internal-and-external-spline-teeth/

Referring to FIGS. 17A and 17B, the standard size and dimensions forAmerican square tool drives per ASA B5.38, used in embodiments of theinvention, may be found at:https://www.engineersedge.com/hardware/square-drive-tools.htm.

Referring to FIG. 18, in the embodiment, the bearings 176 were designedalongside the output shaft 170. The bearings 176 are required to sleeveover the output shaft 170, which exceeded the original bearing internaldiameter (as a consequence of the modification). Taking the minimumshaft outside diameter of 12.7 mm, the next bearing size to suit thiswas selected, for the embodiment, as follows: SKF, 6002-2RHS.http://www.skf.com/group/products/bearings-units-housings/ball-bearings/deep-groove-ball-bearings/deep-groove-ball-bearings/index.html?designation=6002-2RSH.

Due to an increased output shaft 170 diameter (as a consequence of themodification), a new circlip 179 was required as part of themodification. The corresponding circlip specified in the embodiment is:D1400-0150.http://www.circclips.com.au/contentblank.php?sec=products&sec2=circlips&sec3=d1400

Due to an increased output shaft 170 diameter (as a consequence of themodification), a new curved spring (wave) washer 181 was required. Somesuitable wave washers to suit an M15 include, for example:

-   -   https://www.minibearings.com.au/store/item/w0159t022003w3c/    -   https://www.alibaba.com/product-detaiVcarbon-steel-elastic-wave-spring-washer_60806889691.html?spm=a2700.7724857.normalList.37.6185500dMllgsq    -   https://www.aliexpress.com/item/free-shipping-100pcs-M6-304-Stainless-Steel-Spring-Washer-Split-Lock-Washers/

Due to the change in curved spring washer, the inside diameter of thebearing shim washer 183 needs to be updated accordingly. Due to theunique sizing, the washer was custom made to the followingspecifications, in the embodiment: ID=23.5 mm; OD=36.9 mm; T=0.125 mm.

Four top screws 185 attaching the bearing housing 169 to the planetarygearbox are able to be retained. These may be, for example, ofspecification: M4×10 Cylindrical Flanged Socket Head Cap Screw.

Referring to FIGS. 19A, 19B, and 19C, in the embodiment, for a ⅜^(th)square drive, as per ASA B5.38 specifications, the ball plunger isrequired to be a maximum of Ø4 mm. Suitable ball plungers may meet thefollowing specifications:https://www.oceaniaic.com.au/products/indexing-elements/series/gn-614/.Body: ANSI 305 stainless steel. Standard execution: AISI 420C hardenedstainless steel ball, AISI 631 stainless steel spring.

Referring to FIGS. 20A, 20B, and 20C, the spline reaction arm attachmentcomprises a plurality of spring plungers. In the embodiment, threespring plungers 187 are utilised in this regard to seek to ensure thatthe assembly stays together. Suitable spring plungers may meet thefollowing specifications:https://www.oceaniaic.com.au/products/indexing-elements/series/gn-615-3/.Threaded body: AISI 303 stainless steel, screwdriver slotted head.Standard execution: Hardened stainless steel ball, stainless steelspring. Internal hexagon.

Referring to FIGS. 21A to 21E, in the embodiment, the flow meter 152advantageously improves on the conventional flow meter (28 in FIG. 7)design by being operable for and allowing remote actuation of loadingvalve assembly (34 in FIG. 7) thereof. Additionally, the flow meter 152is operable and allows for hydraulic pressure, temperature and flowsignals to be captured and transmitted electrically allowing an operatorof the flow meter 152 (such as the technician 116) to be positioned at aremote, and safe or at least less hazardous, location whilst thehydraulic flow testing is being performed.

In the embodiment, the flow meter 152 is provided as a portable unit(which may be referred to as a “flow meter box”) and comprises thefollowing components:

a conventional flow meter such as described hereinbefore under theheading “BACKGROUND”. This may be, for example, an “off the shelf” flowmeter provided by WEBTEC CTR/LTR (and comprising components operable tosense and provide hydraulic flow and temperature electrical signals andan integral loading valve to restrict flow through a hydraulic circuit,when coupled thereto, raising the pressure thereof);

a power source for those components of the unit requiring power in theform of a battery (not shown);

a drive or driving means in the form of a stepper motor 182 with builtin encoder operable for and to allow closed loop control;

a worm drive reduction gear set 184 operable for and set to drive aninput shaft 186 of, and actuate, the loading valve, the loading valveinput shaft 186 being operable for and splined to match the worm drivereduction gear set 184 (and replacing an original input shaft for theloading valve);

a sealed gearbox housing 188, closed by a cover plate 190, operable forand to protect the worm drive gear set 184;

a hydraulic pressure transducer or sensor (not shown) operable forgenerating and transmitting a pressure signal;

a standard turbine type hydraulic flow meter housing 192 containing theconventional flow meter;

a turbine pulse output for transmitting hydraulic flow rate;

a thermocouple output for transmitting hydraulic temperature; and

a sealed enclosure 194, fabricated from sheet metal in the embodiment,with carry handles 196 for carrying the flow meter 152 unit or box.

In the embodiment, the enclosure 194 houses the battery, the steppermotor 182, and an electronic control system (not shown), based onArduino Technology™ in the embodiment, for controlling operation of theflow meter 152. In this regard, the electronic control system of theflow meter 152 is operable to facilitate communication with the controlsystem components of the system 110 contained within the control systemand power supply case 130, the communication comprising transmittinghydraulic flow, temperature, and pressure signals to the controller 122and receiving stepper motor control signals from the controller 122. Tofacilitate this, in the embodiment, the enclosure 194 houses externalconnectors to power and control the flow meter 152 unit, such as, forexample, RJ45 data connections, W-Fi antenna, and 12/24V powerconnection, operably interconnected as appropriate.

The closed loop stepper motor/encoder 182, gearbox housing 188, andgears of the gear set 184 form a drive unit for driving the replacementinput shaft 186.

In embodiments of the invention, the system may comprise a plurality ofindividual valve actuators 150, for example as a set, with a respectivelead 180 running out from the control system and power supply case 130to each individual valve actuator 150 of the plurality of valveactuators 150 to operably connect thereto.

In such embodiments, the set of sensors 144 may comprise a plurality ofindividual pressure transducers 146 (one for each valve actuator 150 inthe system 110) operable for and to take pressure readings from eachcircuit being adjusted, a respective lead 148 running out from thecontrol system and power supply case 130 to each individual pressuretransducer 146 of the plurality of pressure transducers 146 to operablyconnect thereto, allowing for pressure feedback to touchscreen 142 ofthe mobile communication device 138, as hereinbefore described.

The hydraulic pressure monitoring implemented by the live display of agroup of system pressures to the technician 116 via touchscreen 142 ofthe mobile communication device 138 allows for accurate setting ofhydraulic system pressures with the hydraulic flow meter 152 and valveactuators 150.

In a particular embodiment, six individual pressure transducers 146 maybe provided (which may be of type TE M529D, for example) with testcouplings fitted.

The controller 122 may comprise a sampling system, operable to samplethe signals received from the individual pressure transducers 146 insuch an embodiment.

The system 110 is operable, to present, via the touchscreen 142, asequence of navigable electronic pages, screens and forms to thetechnician 116 using the mobile communication device 138, allowing forthe inputting or capture of information and/or data, includinginstructions and commands pertinent to operation of the system 110, toenable the technician 116 to control the system 110 and perform actionsas described herein.

All data and information collected is distributed within the system 110for use as described herein.

The technician 116 as user is able to navigate, including progressing toand returning from, the generated electronic screens and pages viaexecution of respective navigation interface element buttons providedthereon. Particularly, navigation bars are provided having interfaceelement buttons via which the technician 116 can control the system 110to perform actions. In the described embodiment, such actions include:

-   -   remote monitoring of hydraulic flow, oil temperature and        pressure from the flow meter 152;    -   remote adjustment of the flow meter loading valve in order to        test hydraulic circuits by restricting pump flow and raising        circuit pressure;    -   profiling of hydraulic pump flow and pressure output as load is        increased;    -   automatic tuning of the hydraulic pump 114 to a manufacturers        specification by storing pressure/flow/adjustment profiles and        utilising the remote hydraulic valve actuators 150 (i.e. valve        actuator tuning) to make pump control adjustments while        monitoring the flow and pressure output of the hydraulic pump        114;    -   automatic tuning of the hydraulic pump 114 to an operators        specification by utilising the remote valve actuators 150 (i.e.        valve actuator tuning) to make pump control adjustments while        monitoring the flow and pressure output of the hydraulic pump        114;    -   remote monitoring of hydraulic pressure in circuits to be        adjusted with the remote valve actuators 150;    -   independent control of each remote valve actuator 150;    -   automatic tuning of the hydraulic circuit to an operators        specification by utilising the remote valve actuator 150 (i.e.        valve actuator tuning) while monitoring the pressure of the        circuit being adjusted;    -   automatic tuning of hydraulic circuits to a manufacturers        specification by storing pressure/adjustment profiles and        utilising the remote valve actuator/pressure monitoring system;    -   live flow meter tuning;    -   valve circuit pressure visualisation; and    -   visualisation of pressure, flow rate, and/or temperature.

The control system components of the system 110 housed in the controlsystem and power supply case 130 are operable to send/receive data fromthe hydraulic flow meter 152, valve actuator 150 and hydraulic pressuremonitor provided by sensors of the set of sensors 144 in order toprovide these functions via the touchscreen 142 of the mobilecommunication device 138.

In embodiments of the invention, one or more of the described, andadditional and/or alternative operations performed by the system 110,occur automatically, without requiring human intervention.

The above and other features and advantages of the embodiment of theinvention will now be further described with reference to the system 110in use.

By utilising the information supplied to the control system componentsof the system 110 housed in the control system and power supply case 130by sensors of the set of sensors 144 of the system 110, the controlsystem is operable to automatically tune hydraulic pumps and circuitsbased on variables provided by the technician 116 operating the system110. In this way, the system 110 facilitates automatic tuning ofhydraulic pumps and circuits.

FIG. 9 depicts a first operational set up of the system 110 of theembodiment in which the valve actuator 150 of the system 110 is mountedto a hydraulic pump adjustment point of the hydraulic pump 114 and isbeing controlled by the technician 116 from a remote location via thetouchscreen 142 of the mobile communication device 138 in order to makepump adjustments. A hydraulic pressure transducer 146 is placed in thehydraulic circuit being adjusted to allow monitoring of the circuitpressure and provide feedback for use by the system 110.

In implementations where only the valve actuator 150 and hydraulicpressure transducer 146 are connected to a circuit, the technician 116can provide the system 110 the desired circuit operating pressure as aninput and allow the system 110 to continuously make live adjustmentswith the valve actuator 150 until the desired parameters for operationof the hydraulic pump 114 have been reached.

FIG. 10 depicts a second operational set up of the system 110 of theembodiment, which may be referred to as a full or complete setup, withthe valve actuator 150 mounted to a hydraulic pump adjustment point ofthe hydraulic pump 114, a hydraulic pressure transducer 146 on thehydraulic circuit being adjusted to provide pressure feedback, and theflow meter 152 operably installed on the pump delivery line to sendhydraulic flow pressure and temperature information to the controlsystem and allow remote operation of the flow meter loading valve totest pump and circuit efficiency.

In implementations having the flow meter 152 added into the system 110,hydraulic pump and valve performance can be automatically adjusted byproviding the desired circuit parameters (flow rate/pressure, forexample, in the embodiment) as input to the system 110 and allowing itto make live adjustments to the flow meter loading valve to test systemperformance and to the system valves to seek to ensure operation of thehydraulic pump to the provided parameters.

The embodiments of the invention hereinbefore described can be improved,modified, and/or implemented with one or more features and/or componentsof further embodiments, now described.

It can be appreciated that the system 110 comprises four maincomponents, being (1) the control box 131 (i.e. the control system andpower supply case of the housing 130 in combination with the componentshoused therein), (2) the flow meter 152 unit or box, (3) a set of one ormore (six or seven in the embodiment) valve actuators 150, and (4) theapp installed on the mobile communication device 138.

FIG. 23 depicts a schematic diagram of (1), (2) and (3) of thesecomponents showing their interworking relationship in an embodiment ofthe invention, whilst FIG. 24 depicts a schematic diagram of (1) ofthese components alone, and FIG. 25 depicts a schematic diagram of (2)of these components alone.

As hereinbefore described, the control box 131 ((i.e. the control systemand power supply case of the housing 130 in combination with thecomponents housed therein), is operable to interface with motors of theset of valve actuators 150 and sensors of the set of sensors 144 to givecontrol and send sensor information and/or data to the technician 116via the app installed on the mobile communication device 138.

Example components with which the system 110 may be implemented inembodiments of the invention include the following:

-   -   Control box 131 Main processor (MCU)        -   SAME70-XPLD    -   Stepper motor driver        -   7× CL57T Stepper Drivers    -   4-20 mA RX module        -   3× Gravity: 4-20 mA module    -   Thermistor RX circuit    -   Connectors        -   Motors            -   7× 12 Pin Deutsch DT Series connectors            -   7× Metal ITT Cannon style connectors (min 10 pin)        -   Flow meter box            -   12-15 pin            -   1× Metal ITT Cannon style connectors        -   Pressure sensors            -   M12 Female 4 pin Chassis Socket—RS Stock No. 721-1235        -   24 VDC Power In        -   WiFi antenna            -   IP65 UF.L to SMA bulkhead 250 mm—336319-12-0250            -   SMA dust cap with chain—3-1478985-0        -   Lan port            -   IP65 RJ45 Chassis Socket—NE8FDY-C6            -   IP65 RJ45 Line plug—NE8MC6-MO            -   IP65 Spring-loaded cover—SCCD-W    -   Cable assembly's        -   Motor loom            -   1× 4-Core 18 AWG            -   1× 6-Core Shielded 22-18 AWG        -   Flowmeter box loom            -   1× 12 to 16-Core Shielded 22-18 AWG        -   Pressure sensors            -   3 m Phoenix Contact M12 4-Pin M to F PUR Cable assembly                -   PT #—1668386—No shielding                -   PT #—1500871—Braided shielding        -   24 VDC power            -   1× 2-Core 16 to 8 AWG    -   Battery back up        -   2× 12V gel cell batteries    -   Battery charger    -   Enclosure        -   Pelican 1600 Protector Case (with No foam) or similar size    -   Tablet PC        -   Senter S917, PAD-HGF

As hereinbefore described, the flow meter 152 is operable to monitor andcontrol main pressure flow into the control valves.

Example components with which the flow meter 152 may be implemented inembodiments of the invention include the following:

-   -   Turbine flow meter block        -   Webtec CTR/LTR Turbine flow meter with loading valve. Part            #LT800R-FM-S-B-7            -   _Comes with frequency output RPM sensor and NTC Temp                sensor    -   Flow RPM sensor        -   Webtec LTR Series sensor            -   Has Frequency Output—20-2000 Hz Sinusoidal AC signal            -   Signal voltage range is 30 mV to 10V (Non Linear)            -   Flow rate signal requires linearization calibration at                set points    -   Temperature sensor        -   Webtec LTR Series sensor            -   Sensor is a NTC thermistor (is inside the RPM sensor)    -   Flow RPM to 4-20 mA Signal Converter        -   Status SEM1600F        -   Cynergy3 SC-FREQCON    -   Stepper motor        -   1× NEMA 23 stepper Motor model 23HS22-2804D-E1000            -   Attached to custom 15:1 gearbox    -   Pressure sensor        -   1× TE Model TE M5200            -   M12 4-Pin connector            -   4-20 mA output is a 2-wire configuration    -   Absolute encoder        -   1× POSTAL FRABA magnetic encoder Part #:            UCD-AC005-0413-V6S0-2RW            -   4-20 mA output is a 3-wire configuration    -   Cable assembly's        -   Motor loom            -   1× 4-Core 18 AWG            -   1× 6-Core Shielded 22-18 AWG        -   Flowmeter box loom            -   1× 12 to 16-Core Shielded 22-18 AWG    -   Enclosure        -   Pelican 1460 Protector Case (with No foam) or similar size    -   Connectors        -   Motors            -   1× 12 Pin Deutsch DT Series connectors            -   1× Metal ITT Cannon style connectors (min 10 pin)        -   Flowmeter box sensors (all 4)            -   1× (12-15 pin)

FIGS. 26 and 27 depict, respectively, perspective views of an exampleembodiment of the flow meter 152 without and with a covering portion ofthe flow meter 152 unit or box in place.

As hereinbefore described, embodiments of the universal valve actuator150 comprise stepper motors mounted onto custom brackets, that are thenmounted and operably connected onto each individual valve adjustmentpoint 156 via a custom made motor shaft adapter.

FIG. 28 depicts a schematic block diagram showing an example of animplementation of this in a room or other space housing one or morepumps (for example, a control or pump room of the Excavator/LoadingShovel 210).

Example components with which the universal valve actuator 150 may beimplemented in embodiments of the invention include the following:

-   -   Stepper motor        -   6× NEMA 23 stepper Motor model 23HS22-2804D-PG15-E1000            -   Gearbox is 15:1    -   Pressure sensor        -   6× TE Model TE M5200            -   M12 4-Pin connector            -   4-20 mA output is a 2-wire configuration    -   Cable assembly's        -   Motor loom            -   1× 4-Core 18 AWG            -   1× 6-Core Shielded 22-18 AWG        -   Pressure sensors            -   3 m Phoenix Contact M12 4-Pin M to F PUR Cable assembly                -   PT #—1668386—No shielding                -   PT #—1500871—Braided shielding    -   Connectors        -   Motors            -   12 pin Deutsch DT Male receptacle PT #—DT04-12PA-C015        -   Metal ITT Cannon style connectors (min 10 pin)

In embodiments of the invention, the navigable electronic pages, screensand forms that the app of the system 110 is operable to generate anddisplay via the touchscreen 142 of the mobile communication device 138include: a Main Menu Page 310, a Setup Menu Page 410, and a TuningMenu—Circuit Page 510, as depicted in FIGS. 29, 30 and 31, respectively.

FIG. 32 depicts a flow chart of a program sequence of actions performedby the app.

Use of embodiments of the system 110 may comprise one or more of thefollowing steps, actions and/or activities:

-   -   Installation and Integration    -   1. User arrives at machine to be worked on, such as        Excavator/Loading Shovel 210.    -   2. User carries 3×protective cases up and into machine as        appropriate:        -   a. 1× Control system box;        -   b. 1× Flowmeter box;        -   c. 1× Box containing motors (valve actuators 150), pressure            sensors and all connection cables.    -   3. User unpacks motors (valve actuators 150) whereby each is        identical with no identification markings.    -   4. User attaches up to 6× motors (valve actuators 150) onto each        valve spool that is to be adjusted using custom made brackets.    -   5. User unpacks motor control looms; whereby each loom has a        label at each end that:        -   a. range from 1-7.    -   6. User plugs each of the motor control looms into a motor that        matches the order they are installed in, i.e. from 1-6.    -   7. User unpacks the 6× pressure sensors.        -   a) a pressure sensor is installed into each cylinder valve            port requiring adjustment.            The following steps apply for the sensors:    -   1. User unpacks M12 Male-Female pressure sensor cables; each        cable has a label at each end with a single number from 1-6.    -   2. User plugs each of the corresponding M12 sensor cables into        each pressure sensor that matches with the relevant adjustment        motor loom number, i.e. 1-6.    -   3. User installs the flow meter inline between the hydraulic        pump delivery line and the control valve.    -   4. User unpacks the 2× flowmeter looms. Each loom has a label at        each end with:        -   a. Flowmeter sensors (will only be 1× and will have black            plugs and different keyway).        -   b. ‘Flowmeter Motor’ or ‘7’ (7 will always correspond to the            Flowmeter but looms 1-7 will all be identical).    -   5. User then plugs in the 2× cable looms into the corresponding        sockets on the outside of flow meter 152 box.    -   6. User then runs all 14× connection cables out of pump room and        back to the control system box.    -   7. Each connection socket on the outside of the control system        box will have a label with:

a. Motor 1-7 (10pin sockets) b. Pressure sensor 1-6 (M12 sockets) c.Flowmeter (12 or 15pin socket)

-   -   8. User matches up the 14× cable loom ID labels with the        corresponding socket names and numbers then plugs each one in.    -   9. User then unpacks 1× of the 2× supplied 24V DC power cable        and connects one end into the control box 131 and:        -   a. The other end into a ‘CAT jump start receptacle’            somewhere on the machine.        -   b. The other end onto a 24V battery point using Alligator            clips.    -   10. User sets up WiFi antenna.        -   a. User will remove dust cap from SMA connector located on            the side of the control box 131;        -   b. User then screws on WiFi antenna cable or whip antenna;        -   c. Antenna may be, for example, Omni Whip Antenna or            Directional Antenna on cable with magnetic base.    -   11. User then switches on control box 131 via a switch inside        the control box 131.    -   12. Once all 4× status lights inside the control box 131 are        green, the control box 131 is powered and user is ready to        connect.    -   13. User then closes control box 131 lid to limit dust and dirt        getting in.    -   Testing    -   1. Once the control box 131 is powered on and all status lights        display green, the user is ready to connect        -   a. Follow the hereinbefore described “Installation and            Integration” steps.    -   2. User stays with control box 131 and turns on the mobile        communication device 138 and opens the app and connects to the        control box 131.        -   a. Follow the hereinafter described “Connectivity Steps.”    -   3. Once connected, the app (via the touchscreen 144 of the        mobile communication device 138) is operable to show all        available motors, pressure sensors and flowmeter boxes that are        set up and connected.        -   a. Follow the hereinafter described “Initial Setup” steps.    -   4. User should check that the number of motors and sensors        connected to the system corresponds to those shown on the app.        -   a. A pressure sensor that is set up but not connected will            show an error on screen.        -   b. A pressure sensor that is reading 0 will just read 0 but            not show an error.        -   c. In embodiments, an un-connected motor will show an error.    -   5. While the machine is off, the user should check that all        motors are set up and working correctly by going into the pump        room thereof, then using the app to move each motor clockwise        (CW) and counter-clockwise (CCW) a few degrees (as hereinafter        described).    -   6. User should also check at the same time that, the name or        number of the motor they are adjusting in the app, matches with        the same spool valve and motor on the machine.    -   7. User should then check that flowmeter 152 box is working by        adjusting the motor CW and CCW a few degrees and seeing that the        angle reading generated and displayed on the touchscreen 144        also changes accordingly.        -   a. All sensors apart from temperature should also be reading            0.    -   8. Once user is happy with everything, they can leave the pump        room and start the machine.    -   9. User should check that the 6× pressure sensors are set up and        connected correctly by using the app to move each of the 6×        motors CW and CCW a few degrees.    -   10. Once user is happy with everything, they can move to the cab        of the machine and begin tuning activities.    -   Initial Setup    -   1. User needs to connect all motors and sensors:        -   a. Follow the hereinbefore described “Installation and            Integration” steps.        -   b. Note: care must be taken to connect everything into the            correct location.    -   2. User opens the app and connects to the control box 131:        -   a. Follow the hereinafter described “Connectivity” steps.    -   3. Once connected, the user will be directed to the Main Menu        Page 310 screen.    -   4. The user is provided with three option buttons via the Main        Menu Page 310 screen, as follows: Open Blank Setup 312, Load        Predefined Setup 314, and Load Saved User Setup 316.    -   5. Open ‘blank setup’        -   a. This is a blank set up with no names added and nothing            selected. When the user selects this option, they will be            directed to the Setup Menu Page 410 screen.        -   b. The Setup Menu Page 410 screen displays:            -   i. 1× orange Flow Meter Box 412 at the top for operating                and displaying flow meter 152 details, including                information and data.            -   ii. 6× white Circuit Boxes 414 at the bottom for                operating and displaying tuning circuits and pressure                sensors 1-6 details, including information and data.        -   c. User activates the required circuits and/or flow meter            152 by pressing on the corresponding RED Power Buttons 416.            Once active or on, the Power Buttons 416 will turn GREEN.        -   d. To add a Flow meter, the user must tap on the RED Power            Button 416 in the orange Flow Meter Box 412. The stored flow            meter box calibration and setup data that was entered at            factory into the control box 131 is automatically entered            and activated. In embodiments of the invention, all flow            meter box outputs are standard 4-20ma with the calibration            handled by converters in the box.            -   i. Note: only one ‘Flowmeter’ can be set up in                embodiments of the invention. Alternative embodiments                may allow for more than one flow meter to be set up.        -   e. To add a tuning Circuit, the user taps on the            corresponding RED Power Button 416 in the white Circuit Box            414. When the Power Button 416 is GREEN, the circuit            corresponding thereto is on.        -   f. Circuits can be activated in any order the user desires.        -   g. User can input a ‘circuit description’ or name using a            Circuit Description Dropdown Box 418.            -   i. From there, the user can pick/select from a pre-set                drop-down list of names (for example, boom, stick, or                bucket) as appropriate.            -   ii. Or user can pick/select ‘Custom’ from the down list                and input their own name. This will be at the top of the                list.        -   h. User can then specify whether a pressure sensor will be            used by tapping the corresponding On/Off Button 420 next to            the Pressure Reading 422 display for the pressure sensor.            -   i. In the embodiment, pressure sensors can still be used                even if the circuit tune is tuned off.        -   i. Once user has activated and named all the circuits they            require they can then save this set up to the mobile            communication device 138 and with a custom file name (for            example, BHP Custom CAT Digger #245).    -   6. Load ‘predefined setup’        -   a. In the embodiment, the app has predefined circuit setups            saved for commonly serviced machines that when loaded will            prefill and select circuits for that machine.        -   b. When user enters the Load Predefined Setup 314 option, it            will direct them to a list of 10 common machines, e.g. CAT            6060.        -   c. Once user selects a machine they want, the app will then            switch to the Setup Menu Page 410 screen where the            predetermined number of circuits will be enabled and            corresponding circuit names for that particular machine            added.        -   d. User can then edit the circuits if needed and save as a            custom user setup.    -   7. Load ‘saved user setup’        -   a. The Load Saved User Setup 316 button will direct the user            to the list of custom user setups made.            -   i. These may be saved to memory such as a SD card on the                mobile communication device 138.                -   1. This will act as an additional backup in the                    event of damage to the mobile communication device                    138.            -   b. User finds and taps on the required file; app will                then move to the Setup Menu Page 410 screen.    -   Advanced Settings        -   To get to advanced settings, the user taps on a Small Gear            Device 318 in the corner of the displayed screen. A            generated and displayed Advanced Settings Page screen shows:    -   1. 4-20 mA RX check—These steps should be followed for        calibration of all the 4-20 mA receivers inside the control box        131:        -   a. User will see a list that has pressure sensors 1-6 and            flow meter 152 pressure, temperature, flow and valve            rotation.        -   b. User clicks on the input they want to check.        -   c. A box will display asking them to disconnect sensors            cables from the control box 131 before tapping ‘Next’.        -   d. The screen should then display 0 mA, and if not, the user            should tap a ‘zero sensor’ icon.        -   e. The user then taps next and a box will appear requesting            to connect 4-20 mA simulator box.        -   f. User then plugs in 4-20 mA simulator box to the input            being tested and taps next.        -   g. Next box says, ‘set simulator box to 1.00 mA’. User tunes            knob on simulator box to 1.00 mA.        -   h. App screen should show 1.00 mA, if not user then then            taps ‘set 1.00 mA’. Screen should show 1.00 mA now.        -   i. User taps ‘Next’.        -   j. Steps ‘g’ to ‘l’ should be repeated with the values 4 mA,            8 mA, 16 mA and 20 mA.        -   k. User then taps ‘Done’ to continue.        -   l. App via the touchscreen 144 asks ‘Are you sure you want            to save these settings’ to which the user then taps ‘Yes’ or            ‘No.’        -   m. User is directed back to Advanced Settings Page screen.    -   2. Sensor input calibration—This is used for adding calibration        value offsets for the pressure, temperature and flow sensors.        -   a. User will see a list of available sensors that have been            set up.            -   i. Follow the hereinbefore described “Initial Setup”                steps.    -   3. System Voltages screen—in this the user can view the input        voltage and voltages on the control board.        -   a. This screen will show:            -   i. Input voltage=24-30V.            -   ii. V5 Rail=5.00V.            -   iii. 3V3 rail=3.30V.            -   iv. User then taps ‘Ok’ and goes back to Advanced                Settings Page screen.    -   4. WiFi and LAN settings/options?        -   a. Change or edit WiFi password:            -   i. This can only be done when connecting to the box via                LAN, in the embodiment.        -   b. Change or edit box Name            -   i. User can edit all or part of the box name that is                shown in WiFi and LAN.    -   Connectivity    -   1. Once user starts the app it will automatically default to the        WiFi connection options.    -   2. WiFi        -   a. Once the app has loaded the screen will display the            available control boxes 131 in WiFi range in a list.            -   i. This screen also has a button to refresh WiFi                searching, in the embodiment.        -   b. User selects the box that has the same name or serial            number of the one they are using:            -   i. Name or serial number of control box 131 will be on a                sticker on top and inside box.        -   c. Once selected a pop-up box asks them to input a password            or passkey?            -   i. Password or passkey will be on a sticker inside box,                in embodiments of the invention.            -   ii. If Password is lost, the user follows the                hereinbefore described “Advanced Settings” steps.        -   d. Once the correct pass key is entered app screen will go            to the Main Menu Page 310 screen.        -   e. If user is having problem with WiFi connection, then a            direct hard wire connection can be made using LAN.    -   3. LAN        -   a. User must connect LAN/Ethernet cable from control box 131            to the mobile communication device 138.        -   b. In the bottom corner of the ‘available control boxes 131            in WiFi range’ screen there will be a button called “Connect            using LAN”.        -   c. When user taps on the “Connect using LAN” button, the app            will go to a new screen and display the control boxes 131            that it is able to connect with.            -   i. This screen also has a button to refresh ‘search’.        -   d. User selects the box that has the same name or serial            number of the one they are using:            -   i. The name or serial number of control box 131 will be                on a sticker on top and inside the control box 131 in                embodiments of the invention        -   e. No password or passkey is needed, in the embodiment.        -   f. App screen will go to the Main Menu Page 310 screen.    -   App use    -   1. From the Setup Menu Page 410 screen the user taps on the        Start Tuning 424 button/box generated in the top right of the        screen.    -   2. The Tuning Menu—Circuit Page 510 screen now opens. User will        see, generated and displayed via the touchscreen 138:        -   a. Centre Dial 512—This shows the amount of valve/motor            adjustment (i.e. this will show current position relative to            when the app was started) that the user has made while using            the app for the currently selected motor of a respective            valve actuator 150.            -   a. The adjustment amount will be stored for each motor                until the control box 131 is reset.            -   b. The name and description of the selected device is                displayed above the tuning Centre Dial 512.            -   c. Flow Meter Gauge Display 514 may have a scale from                0-100% rather than 0-360°, in embodiments of the                invention.        -   b. Device Overview 516—This is the device list that is            located on the left side of the Tuning Menu—Circuit Page 510            screen. User can toggle between Circuits they want to adjust            by tapping on the desired circuit in the device list.            -   a. Up to 7 devices will be displayed, along with their                description and real-time pressure readings, in the                embodiment.            -   b. The flow meter readings will always be displayed                regardless of what device is selected, this located in                the panel beneath the device name and description.        -   c. E-Stop or Emergency Stop 518 button, operable for causing            an emergency stop of the system 110 once activated.    -   3. When a circuit is selected, the user can make adjustments to        the circuit in the following ways:        -   a. In increments, using the Adjustment Buttons 520            displaying amount (degrees) and direction (CCW/CW).        -   b. Holding the CCW Button 522 or CW Button 524 located            either side of the tuning Centre Dial 512.        -   c. The user can select the sensitivity or speed at which the            tuning dial adjusts with the Adjustment Sensitivity Buttons            526 (for example, x½, x1, x2).        -   b. The tuning Centre Dial 512 displays the amount of valve            adjustment/rotation that the user has made since the app was            started.    -   4. If the adjusting motor of a valve actuator 150 is stalled        (i.e. the motor has tuned the valve to a full off or on position        and hit a hard stop or jammed up) then:        -   a. A pop-up box will be generated and displayed via the            touchscreen 138 saying “Motor Stalled!” with a button saying            “Reset”.        -   b. In response, the user taps Reset—this will power cycle            the stepper motor driver for that specific motor.        -   c. The pop-up box will then disappear and the app will            return to the Tuning Menu—Circuit Page 510 screen.        -   d. User should then rotate the motor in the opposite            direction to what made it stall.        -   e. If they turn it the same way the box will pop up again.

It can be appreciated that the user can make real time adjustments toeach valve by simply pressing the CCW Button 522 or CW Button 524 in theapp, all from the comfort of the driver's cab, for example, in the casewhere the machine is an Excavator/Loading Shovel 210.

It will be appreciated that the described embodiment of the inventionprovides several advantages as highlighted and described earlier herein,including:

-   -   providing a user with safer working conditions by mitigating        nearly all risk;    -   saving time by allowing a user to make adjustments to multiple        hydraulic circuits and test them straight away; and    -   providing a better system overview by allowing a user to monitor        and display all readings from the hydraulic system on one        screen.        It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that        variations and modifications to the invention described herein        will be apparent without departing from the spirit and scope        thereof. The variations and modifications as would be apparent        to persons skilled in the art are deemed to fall within the        broad scope and ambit of the invention as herein set forth.

The claims defining the invention are as follows:
 1. A hydraulic circuit tuning system, the hydraulic tuning system comprising: a tool operable to perform at least one action for tuning of an other system comprising an hydraulic circuit, the other system comprising at least one hydraulic adjustment point; a controller; storage storing electronic program instructions for controlling the controller; and an input means; wherein the controller is operable, under control of the electronic program instructions, to: receive input via the input means; process the input and, on the basis of the processing, control the tool to perform the action for tuning of the hydraulic circuit, the tool comprises at least one actuator being operatively connected to the hydraulic adjustment point of the other system for tuning of the other system and to the controller for controlling of the actuator, and the hydraulic tuning system further comprises a plurality of brackets adapted to mount the tool to the other system for operatively connecting the actuator to the hydraulic adjustment point of the other system, each bracket being adapted to be removably attached to the actuator permitting replacement of the bracket with another bracket having a different shape than the other brackets for attachment of the tool to any hydraulic valve body.
 2. A system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is adapted to be actuated wirelessly and the input means is adapted to actuate wirelessly the controller for tunning of the hydraulic circuit from a location located remotely from the hydraulic circuit.
 3. A system according to claim 1, wherein the tool comprises part of an interface for operably coupling the system to the other system.
 4. A system according to claim 1, wherein the input comprises details, the details comprising data and/or information of, associated with, and/or related to: the tool; the action to be performed; and/or the other system.
 5. A system according to claim 4, wherein the data and/or information is obtained by one or more of retrieving, receiving, extracting, and identifying it, from one or more sources, sources including the tool and/or the other system.
 6. A system according to claim 4, wherein processing of the input comprises an analysis of the details, and the controller is operable, under control of the electronic program instructions, to control the tool on the basis of the analysis.
 7. A system according to claim 1, further comprising a display for displaying a user interface, wherein the controller is operable, under control of the electronic program instructions, to generate an output on the basis of the processing, and to communicate the output via the display.
 8. A system according to claim 1, wherein the at least one actuator is part of an actuator system or a set of actuators.
 9. A system according to claim 1, wherein the input means comprises at least one sensor, which may be part of a sensor system or a set of sensors, individual sensors within the set of sensors being operable to monitor, sense and gather or measure sensor data and/or information associated with and/or relating to one or more characteristics, properties and/or parameters of one or more of the system, the action to be performed, the other system, and the surrounding environment, or components, systems or devices associated therewith or coupled thereto.
 10. A system according to claim 9, wherein the at least one sensor comprises: a hydraulic pressure sensor; a hydraulic flow sensor; a temperature sensor.
 11. A system according to claim 1, wherein the input comprises user instructions which are input by a user via the input means, the user instructions comprising a command to perform the action, the controller being operable, under control of the electronic program instructions, to perform the action according to the received user instructions.
 12. A system according to claim 1, wherein operations performed by the system occur automatically, without requiring human intervention.
 13. A system according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of brackets comprises removable splined reaction arms.
 14. A method for operating a system for tuning an other system comprising a hydraulic circuit, the other system comprising at least one hydraulic adjustment point, the method comprising: storing electronic program instructions for controlling a controller; and controlling the controller via the electronic program instructions, to: receive input via an input means; and process the input and, on the basis of the processing, control a tool operable to perform at least one action, to perform the action for tuning of the hydraulic circuit, the tool comprises at least one actuator being adapted to be operatively connected to the hydraulic adjustment point of the other system for tuning of the other system, and to the controller for controlling of the actuator, and the hydraulic tuning system further comprising a plurality of brackets adapted to mount the tool to the other system for operatively connecting the actuator to the hydraulic adjustment point of the, each bracket being adapted to be removably attached to the actuator permitting replacement of the bracket with another bracket having a different shape than the other brackets for attachment of the tool to any hydraulic valve body.
 15. A method according to claim 14, wherein the controller is adapted to be actuated wirelessly and the input means is adapted to actuate wirelessly the controller.
 16. A method according to claim 14, wherein the tool comprises part of an interface for operably coupling the system to the other system.
 17. A method according to claim 15, wherein the input comprises details, the details comprising data and/or information of, associated with, and/or related to: the tool; the action to be performed; and/or the other system.
 18. A method according to claim 17, wherein the data and/or information is obtained by one or more of retrieving, receiving, extracting, and identifying it, from one or more sources, sources including the tool and/or the other system.
 19. A method according to claim 17, wherein processing of the input comprises an analysis of the details, and the controller is operable, under control of the electronic program instructions, to control the tool on the basis of the analysis.
 20. A method according to claim 14, further comprising controlling the controller via the electronic program instructions, to generate an output on the basis of the processing, and to communicate the output via a display for displaying a user interface.
 21. A method according to claim 14, wherein the at least one actuator is part of an actuator system or a set of actuators.
 22. A method according to claim 14, wherein the input means comprises at least one sensor, which may be part of a sensor system or a set of sensors, individual sensors within the set of sensors being operable to monitor, sense and gather or measure sensor data and/or information associated with and/or relating to one or more characteristics, properties and/or parameters of one or more of the system, the action to be performed, the other system, and the surrounding environment, or components, systems or devices associated therewith or coupled thereto.
 23. A method according to claim 22, wherein the at least one sensor comprises: a hydraulic pressure sensor; a hydraulic flow sensor; a temperature sensor.
 24. A method according to claim 14, wherein the input comprises user instructions which are input by a user via the input means, the user instructions comprising a command to perform the action, the method comprising controlling the controller via the electronic program instructions to perform the action according to the received user instructions.
 25. A method according to claim 14, wherein operations performed by the system occur automatically, without requiring human intervention.
 26. A computer-readable storage medium on which is stored instructions that, when executed by a computing means, causes the computing means to perform a method according to claim
 14. 27. A computing means programmed to carry out a method according to claim
 14. 28. A method according to claim 14, wherein each of the plurality of brackets comprises removable splined reaction arms. 